The Possession of Knowledge
Enporula Vaakach Chelachchollith Thaanpirarvaai / Nunporul Kaanpa Tharivu
Classical English couplet — “Wisdom hath use of lucid speech, words that acceptance win,And subtle sense of other men's discourse takes in”
What it says in plain words
“Wisdom means speaking simply so others understand and remember your meaning. It also means listening carefully for deeper meaning in their words.”
The classical Tamil reading
தான் சொல்லுவன எளிய பொருளையுடையனவாகப் பதியுமாறு சொல்லி, தான் பிறரிடம் கேட்பவற்றின் நுட்பமானப் பொருளையும் ஆராய்ந்து காண்பது அறிவாகும்.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
நாம் சொல்ல வேண்டியவைகளை எளிய முறையில் கேட்போரின் இதயத்தில் பதியுமாறு சொல்லிப் பிறர் சொல்லும் நுட்பமான கருத்துக்களையும் ஆராய்ந்து தெளிவதே அறிவுடைமையாகும்
The ethical and philosophical heart
Knowing something is not enough if people cannot understand your explanation. Clear words help your message stay with the listener. Other people's words may carry more meaning than you first notice. Speak clearly and listen deeply to better understand each other.
In personal life, work and society
- Personal
- When a friend describes a problem, ask questions to understand what they mean.
- Workplace
- Explain a new task in simple steps your coworker can follow.
- Family
- Listen carefully when your child struggles to explain a difficult day.
- Society
- Explain a local issue in everyday words at a community meeting.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- Understand what others mean before deciding how to respond.
- Integrity
- Use clear words that help others understand what you truly mean.
- Communication
- Speak simply, and ask questions when someone's meaning is unclear.
- Leadership
- Give clear instructions, and listen carefully to the concerns people raise.
- Governance
- Explain public decisions plainly, and seek to understand people's concerns.
For leaders and teams
Help people understand you through clear words and careful listening. Take time to understand their meaning, even when they struggle to explain.
Something to sit with
“In which conversation today could you speak more simply or listen more carefully?”